System hardening is the process of securing an information technology (IT) system by reducing its vulnerability to potential cyber attacks and other security threats. The goal of system hardening is to minimize the attack surface and increase the overall security posture of the system.

System hardening typically involves a series of steps, such as disabling unnecessary services, removing default accounts and passwords, installing security patches and updates, configuring firewalls and access controls, and implementing intrusion detection and prevention systems. These measures help to eliminate or reduce security vulnerabilities and provide a more secure environment for data and system resources.

System hardening is an ongoing process that requires continuous monitoring and updating as new threats emerge and security vulnerabilities are discovered. By implementing a comprehensive system hardening program, organizations can enhance their overall security posture and reduce the risk of security breaches and cyber attacks.